Abramovich's Yacht Pelarus

Just when we all thought that the world financial crisis was really hitting home, Russian gagilionaie Roman Abramovich launched his new yacht in Germany yesterday. Abramovich, who was recently estimated to be the 51st richest man in the world by Forbes (with $8.5 billion), will add his new ship—Eclipse—to his private fleet which includes four other luxury yachts.

Abramovich's Private 767

The new yacht—which was built in secrecy—will have two swimming pools, two helipads, a spa, several tenders and a multitude of VIP guest suites. The 557 foot ship will also include a military-grade missile defense system, bullet proof accommodations for Abramovich’s suite and a submarine that’s intended to serve as an escape vessel if needed. As expected, the yacht is the biggest in the world is rumored to cost as estimated 300 million pounds.

The 43 year old mogul is the former mayor of Chukotka and the current owner of the Chelsea Football Club. Although the Jewish businessman lost a reported 3 billion pounds during the current crisis, he will certianly find some comfort on his new ship. To see pictures of Eclipse, click here!

photo credit: akifui, VitaliK